The Truth About The Dangers Of Crossbows: Your Questions Answered
In this article, we explore the misconceptions around crossbows and highlight the very real dangers they pose. This follows the recent inquest into the death of Shane Gilmer who was “unlawfully killed” by a crossbow. Together with Shane’s partner, Laura Sugden, we are supporting a campaign to call for stricter laws governing the purchase/acquisition/possession of…
Shotgun and Firearms Licensing Case Update 2021
Ison Harrison Solicitors are specialists in firearm and shotgun licensing appeals. This article focusses some of the cases we dealt with recently. We have chosen to include two successful appeals and two which were dismissed. We hope the summaries are useful that they highlight some common issues in shotgun and firearm licensing cases. Case 1…
The murky world of Unexplained Wealth Orders- and why legal advice is critical: Part One
Of the tools developed to assist investigators in recovering supposedly ill-gotten gains, the Unexplained Wealth Order (UWO) are a favourite of the press as they allow salacious reports of cases involving eye-watering sums of money. Here, we look at what UWOs are and what is needed before the authorities can try to secure them. What…
Rave Off? The Impact of the New Coronavirus Rules
In 1994, parties across the country were criminalised by the passing of the Criminal Justice Act. The hugely controversial Act was a response to the government’s displeasure at rave culture and all that it entailed, not least the raves themselves (sections 63 to 66 are entitled ‘powers in relation to raves.) Where s.63 applies to…
To Confiscate or Not to Confiscate? Proceeds of Crime in CV Fraud Cases
An eye catching case recently came before the Court of Appeal. The main facts are interesting enough on their own, but those involved in confiscation cases will find it especially noteworthy. In the wake of a Supreme Court case called Waya, changes were made to the Proceeds of Crime Act. A key amendment was made…
Furlough and Fraud – A Perfect Storm?
The government’s Covid019 Job Retention Scheme went live on 20 April, enabling employers to make claims of up-to £2,500 per month, per employee, until at least the 30th of June. HMRC have already expressed concerns that the scheme will be targetted by orgainised criminals looking to profit illegally from payments on offer. A spokesperson was…
Lockdown Law: A Practical Overview
Three weeks in and a fast-tracked set of laws are upon us all. Although the issue is a public health one, the new legislation imposes rules and restrictions on behaviour- with the scope for penalties if we do not conform. The key legislation is the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020. Here, we present…
Running a Livery Yard: Do’s and Don’ts from a Legal Perspective
Do make it clear to owners/keepers that you are legally obliged to act on any welfare concerns if they are not taking appropriate steps to address them. As a livery yard proprietor, a horse spends more time with you than with anyone else, and you can be the subject of a prosecution in relation to…
Recent Cases in Animal Welfare
Two recent cases have brought attention to the law on animal welfare. As is so often the case, the facts may be somewhat novel but the underlying points are of broader interest. An unusual case A woman from Birmingham was sentenced on 23 January after being found guilty of four animal welfare offences. Louise Lawford…
When Is A Dog Deemed Dangerous?
Dangerous Dogs In Recent Media Very sadly, recent media reports have detailed a shocking case in which a woman from Widnes died having been attacked by two dogs. Those keeping dogs may not feel that they need to pay attention to the law in this area, but an awareness of it can go hand in…